Angelica keiskei

USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

Close

Angelica keiskei, more popularly known as Ashitaba (meaning Tomorrow's Leaf) is an herbaceous, non-frost tender, perennial plant from the Angelica genus. It is endemic to Hachijō-jima, an island of Japan. The plant's additional cultivar epithet, koidzumi, is a nod to the botanist Genichi Koizumi, while the Japanese nomenclature of Ashitaba comes from its amazing regenerative capabilities. When a leaf at the break of dawn is harvested, a new sprout can often be seen growing overnight.

With a known traditional history of aiding in the healthier extended lives of the local residents, the plant's health benefits are attributed to its high levels of Vitamin B12, as well as the chalconoids that are found only in this particular species of Angelica.

Angelica keiskei is now mainly cultivated for use in regional cuisine in the forms of soba, tempura, tea and even ice-cream. It can be grown both in the wild and in containers, and it is best grown in moist soil in partially shaded areas, with sufficient water and fertilizer. Mature plants will reach a height up to 5 feet, and are best suited to warmer regions of USDA Zone 7-10. In colder climates, it is advised to quite simply grow plants in a sunny container and bring them to shelter during any cold weather.

This species is known to have a great deal of ethnomedical uses, both in traditional Chinese and Japanese herbal medicine, while also being highly sought-after in gardens due to its sweet-aromatic scent and colorful foliage. On top of this, Angelica keiskei can also be used as an herb or spice in regional cuisines, adding a great condiment ingredient, preservative and flavor enhancer.

In summary, Angelica keiskei is truly a unique plant and is worthy of being added to any garden.

Artemisia abrotanum

Other common names include: old man, boy's love, oldman wormwood, lover's plant, appleringie, garderobe, Our Lord's wood, maid's ruin, garden sagebrush, European sage, sitherwood and lemon plant.

Artemisia arborescens

Artemisia arborescens (Tree Wormwood) is an upright-growing shrub that can grow to 5-10 ft height. It has silvery-grey, finely divided, fragrant foliage. This shrub is extremely drought-hardy and prefers full sun, but will also tolerate partial shade.

Artemisia arborescens should be planted in a well-draining location in full sun. Generally, it is a low maintenance plant tolerant of drought, and a moderate amount of water will be sufficient. Pruning may be necessary for large shrubs, particularly if left unpruned for a long period of time.

For small shrubs (2-5ft tall), Artemisia arborescens is an ideal specimen for container gardens, even in cold regions. It does well in partial shade, and should be provided with frequent waterings. In cold climates, the plant should be brought in from outside during the winter months and allowed to rest indoors in a sunny location.

In addition to its ornamental foliage, Artemisia arborescens is a popular ethnomedical plant with multiple medicinal properties. It is used in various traditional medicines as a spice or herb. Some uses include treating digestive disorders and muscle pain.

With its ornamental foliage and its multiple uses, Artemisia arborescens is an ideal garden companion for any medicinal plant enthusiast.

Aspalathus sp.

Aspalathus, the genus to which the Rooibos Tea plant belongs, is endemic to South Africa.

Species of Aspalathus has never been developed into garden plants, although many attractive species show great potential as garden plants.

Berberis sp.

Berberis species are popular garden shrubs, grown for their ornamental leaves, yellow flowers, and red or blue-black berries.